Joint Formulary & PAD

Metformin hydrochloride - Diabetes Mellitus

You are here : Home > Formulary Search > Metformin hydrochloride - Diabetes Mellitus

I agree that in using this database I understand that this platform only provides guidance on local prescribing policy and that all prescribing decisions are ultimately the responsibility of the clinician.

Status 1

Green
Formulations :
  • Modified release tablets
Formulary Status :
Primary Care
ASPH
RSFT
SASH
SABP
Associated Icons :
Guidelines
SPC
Restrictions / Comments :
Important
Preferred

Metformin Modified-release tablets are recommended first line on initiation to reduce potential gastrointestinal disturbances causing non-adherence with metformin immediate release.

NOTE: 1g ordinary tablets are disproportionately expensive in primary care. 1g modified release tablets are recommended.

 

Status 2

Green (see narrative)
Formulations :
  • Oral solution
  • Powder
Formulary Status :
Primary Care
ASPH
RSFT
SASH
SABP
Associated Icons :
Guidelines
SPC
Restrictions / Comments :
Important
Oral solution should be reserved for patients with enteral feeding tubes or those unable to swallow tablets. Sachets of powder for oral solution are preferred in patients with swallowing difficulties in primary care.
 

Status 3

Green (see narrative)
Formulations :
  • Immediate release tablets
Formulary Status :
Primary Care
ASPH
RSFT
SASH
SABP
Associated Icons :
Guidelines
SPC
Restrictions / Comments :
Important

Metformin modified-release tablets are the preferred formulation.

Immediate release metformin to be continued if effective. Switch to modified-release metformin if IR not tolerated or if this is the patient's preference.

Documentation

Guidelines (Local)
Metformin - Dose Titration Guide - Jan 2016

PAD Profile

ChemicalSubstance :
Metformin hydrochloride
Indication :
Diabetes Mellitus
Group Name :
Other antidiabetic drugs
Keywords :
Renal Impairment, Kidney Disease, metformin dose titration, metformin intolerance, metformin side effects
Brand Names Include :
Glucophage SR, Bolamyn SR, Diagemet XL, Glucient SR, Metabet SR, Sukkarto SR
Important Information :
Latest Additions Date From :
Latest Additions Date To :
Guidelines :
Diabetes Mellitus
Supporting Documents :
1
Traffic Light Entries :
3

Committee Recommendations (2)

16 Apr 26 - Surrey Heartlands Integrated Care System Area Prescribing Committee (APC)

The Surrey Heratlands APC agreed that:

  • Metformin MR should be first line on initiation (in line with NICE NG28 Type 2 diabetes Guideline ) to reduce potential gastrointestinal disturbances causing non-adherence with metformin immediate release.
  • For patients already on IR metformin, continue if effective. Switch to MR metformin if IR metformin not tolerated or this is the patient’s preference
07 Feb 18 - Surrey & North West Sussex Area Prescribing Committee (formerly Prescribing Clinical Network)

Metformin should be considered as the drug of first choice particularly in overweight patients, when dietary management and exercise alone does not result in adequate glycaemic control. Appropriate dose titration and patient education will reduce the likelihood of metformin intolerance - see dose titration guide. 

Other Indications

Below are listed other indications that Metformin hydrochloride is used to treat.

Other Drugs

Below are listed other drugs that are used to treat Diabetes Mellitus.